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- Tasks: Join a team of Caretakers ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for students and staff.
- Company: The University of Portsmouth, a top-rated institution with a commitment to excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, pension scheme, and staff discounts.
- Why this job: Make a difference in student welfare while enjoying excellent training and development opportunities.
- Qualifications: Experience in Facilities Management and good communication skills are essential.
- Other info: Flexible working policies and a supportive community await you.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
The University of Portsmouth is a global employer of choice where exceptional people create, share and apply knowledge that makes a difference. Experience the pride of being part of a select group, one of only four universities in the south-east of England to achieve a prestigious Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework. Additionally, we proudly rank among the top 140 universities globally in the Times Higher Young University World Rankings. Ambition, Responsibility and Openness drive our every endeavour. Join our esteemed institution with a proven track record of success, and where dedication to excellence is key. We want people to make their mark in a professional community that truly values people, innovation, and achievement.
The Role:
We are currently looking for three shift working Caretakers to join the Estates and Campus Services Department on a permanent basis. The role will be working as part of a team of Caretakers looking after a number of academic and support buildings in a building group under a Group Building Supervisor. The post has a wide range of responsibilities to staff, students, contractors and visitors within the University. Experience of working in Facilities Management, the HE Sector and a good working knowledge of Health and Safety Regulations are essential.
As a candidate, you will need to be self-motivated, courteous, flexible, pro-active, and have good communications skills including accurate reporting both written and verbal. You will need to be a team player, as well as have the capability to work on your own initiative and be aware of the expectations of ability in the Manual Handling Regulations, as the largest part of the role involves manual handling. Applicants must also need to be able to build effective working relationships with staff at all levels and be able to demonstrate the ability to deliver an excellent customer focused service. There is a requirement to have a full driving licence to drive University vehicles when the need arises. With an absolute commitment to continuous improvement at both team and individual levels, successful candidates must demonstrate an interest in student welfare in an atmosphere of open mindedness and inclusion for all.
The position has a good rate of pay plus overtime when required, and a further enhancement for being a qualified First Aider (Training provided).
Working Pattern:
- Term Time Hours: 06:30 to 14:00 Mon-Thurs (Fri 06:30 to 13:30), 14:00 to 21:30 Mon-Thurs (Fri 12:30 to 19:30)
- Out of Term Time Hours: 06:30 to 14:00 Mon-Thurs (Fri 06:30 to 13:30), 12:00 to 19:30 Mon-Thurs (Fri 12:30 to 19:30)
The shift pattern works on opposite shifts on consecutive weekdays. Support for Open Days on Saturdays as applicable.
Location:
The base building has not been finalised, which will be advised at the induction meeting. This position is working on-site only, so we are unable to support hybrid working for this appointment.
Interview date:
The interviews are currently anticipated to be held on w/c 30th March 2026.
Discover the advantages of joining our university. We offer a range of attractive benefits and opportunities to enhance your work experience:
- Competitive salary, including incremental progression within your scale.
- Generous pension scheme.
- Generous leave entitlement of 32-35 days a year, plus bank holidays, and an additional Christmas closure.
- Family-friendly policies supporting flexible working.
- Staff discounts and loyalty schemes.
- Staff car parking and discounted public travel.
- Excellent training and development opportunities.
- Staff wellbeing programmes.
- Recreation facilities, including discounted gym membership, food on campus schemes, use of the Library and staff social activities.
- Discounted learning.
Caretaker in Portsmouth employer: University of Portsmouth Estates Department
Contact Detail:
University of Portsmouth Estates Department Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Caretaker in Portsmouth
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the University of Portsmouth! Research their values and culture so you can show how you fit in. When you chat with them, drop in some examples of how your experience aligns with their mission.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend university events. This way, you can get insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to caretaking and facilities management. Think about scenarios where you've demonstrated teamwork and customer service, as these are key for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our awesome team at the University of Portsmouth.
We think you need these skills to ace Caretaker in Portsmouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of a Caretaker. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Show Off Your Skills: Don’t forget to mention your communication skills and any experience in Facilities Management. We want to see how you can contribute to our team and enhance the student experience at the University.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your points are easy to read and understand. Avoid fluff and get straight to the good stuff!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and is considered promptly. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Portsmouth Estates Department
✨Know Your Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Caretaker at the University of Portsmouth. Familiarise yourself with the key aspects of Facilities Management, Health and Safety Regulations, and the importance of customer service in your role. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the position.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
Since this role requires working as part of a team, be prepared to discuss your experiences collaborating with others. Think of examples where you've successfully worked in a team environment, highlighting your communication skills and ability to build relationships. This will demonstrate that you can contribute positively to the university's community.
✨Demonstrate Flexibility and Initiative
The job description mentions the need for flexibility and the ability to work on your own initiative. Be ready to share instances where you've adapted to changing circumstances or taken the lead on a task. This will show that you can handle the dynamic nature of the role and are committed to continuous improvement.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so come prepared with thoughtful questions about the role and the university. Ask about the team dynamics, opportunities for training, or how the university supports staff wellbeing. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the university is the right fit for you.